"We ran the exact same system in high school that he was known for at Troy," said Burns.

"It's exciting to have a type of guy who just loves to throw the ball and he's a real guru on offense. I'm excited and I think a lot of guys on offense are excited, too."

Burns was used primarily as a running quarterback his first season as a Tiger, but Burns was more of a passer at Northside High School in Ft. Smith, Ark., throwing for 1,903 yards and 23 touchdowns as a senior.

"I always thought of myself as a pass-first guy," said Burns. "I think with this coach I'll have the opportunity to be able to pass first and rush second."

Burns said the biggest change in AU's practices so far has been the tempo.